Parma – Atalanta

Atalanta redeems itself for the setback in the first round

It was hardly a surprise that Atalanta did not win their opening match. In the summer, the team underwent significant changes, the most notable being the change in management. Gian Piero Gasperini, without whom the successes of the Bergamasques are unimaginable, was replaced by his 'pupil' Ivan Juric. The main loss 'on the pitch' was the departure of Mateo Retegu while the star player Lookman was suspended from matches. However, the signing of Nikola Krstović is expected to help the team in attack. The match against Pisa began with a frustrating own goal. In the 26th minute, after a mistake by Isak Hien, the ball treacherously flew into Carnesecchi's net. Pisa could have doubled their advantage, but this time the goalkeeper saved the day. The second half, however, left quite a positive impression. Gianluca Scamacca triumphantly returned to the game. In the 50th minute, the Italian scored his first goal in over a year. Almost immediately, he could have scored a second, but after a header, the ball hit the crossbar. Jimshiti and Maldini could have secured three points for 'La Dea', but luck was not on their side. Atalanta had an xG of 2.05 but only managed to earn a draw. Parma started with a defeat. In the summer, the 'Crusaders' appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach, who assisted Arteta at Arsenal. This is the 30-year-old coach's first 'independent' season in his career. The team sold almost all of its assets over the summer. Players such as Bonny, Mana, Leone, and Zom left. Cancellieri returned to Lazio, while Ondrejka is injured until the winter. The club made significant signings just before the second round match, bringing in Cutrone and Oristanio. However, it's unlikely they will be expected to start in the first match. The 'Crusaders' performed poorly against Juventus. Parma completely collapsed in the first half, although they kept their goal intact. The Turin side, however, 'pressed' their opponent in the 59th minute and doubled their lead towards the end of the match. The 'Djaloblu' only began to resist when they gained a numerical advantage. Last season, the teams exchanged victories. At 'Ennio Tardini', Atalanta celebrated a convincing 1-3 victory. However, the match in Bergamo ended in an unexpected 2-3 victory for the 'Djaloblu'. Parma has changed significantly since that season. Queiroz has to do something he has never done before – assemble a team. It is unlikely that Parmese will be able to oppose the success-driven Atalanta.